Aston Villa may not have been as active as many of their supporters were hoping in the January transfer window, but they still made one stand-out addition.

The signing of Carles Gil from Valencia looks to be the most exciting bit of business they have completed in a number of years and the Spaniard has already shown just how crucial he will be between now and the end of the season.

Gil's stunning goal against Bournemouth has been his most memorable moment in a Villa shirt so far, but there has been plenty more than just this strike to be encouraged by.

The 22-year-old has looked a class above anyone else in a Villa shirt in every appearance he has made so far, with his ability in possession shining through.

Able to pick out a pass, or breeze past defenders with his skill, Gil looks a huge asset and he could be the player who saves them from the drop.

Villa have been dire going forward this season and, although Gil hasn't enhanced their goalscoring record too much yet, his creativity will be crucial as the season draws towards a close.

The Claret and Blues picked Gil up for a fee reported to be just £3.2 million by the Guardian and it looks to be a piece of business that is amongst the best any club in England did over the past month.

John Verrall

John is a sports journalism graduate from Staffordshire University. He is a huge football fan and a minute-by-minute writer for UEFA.com, as well as being a freelance writer for Sports New Media. John has also seen his work been published by the likes of The Guardian, World Soccer and Shoot Magazine over the course of his bourgeoning journalism career so far. He has a particular expertise in all things to do with the Football League – and is a passionate Peterborough United fan.